Rare 42-year-old Singleton Gourmand finds a collector’s home in the Philippines

The Philippines has joined an elite circle of whisky destinations with the arrival of The Singleton Gourmand, the brand’s most indulgent and exclusive release to date. Crafted in an edition of only 136 bottles worldwide, this 42-year-old single malt whisky represents the pinnacle of artistry, patience, and rarity in the world of fine spirits.

Among the first to acquire the limited release in the country is Patterson Ngo, a long-time whisky collector and hospitality entrepreneur, who secured his bottle through Diageo’s Private Sales Group—the luxury arm of the global drinks company known for curating bespoke experiences for collectors and connoisseurs.

“The art of the bottle is what attracted me to The Singleton Gourmand,” Ngo said, recalling how he reserved his set through a trusted Diageo distributor even before the release officially reached the Philippines. “The presentation, from the box to the sculptural case, were what made it stand out.”

Crafted under the expertise of Dr. Craig Wilson, The Singleton Gourmand is the result of nearly three decades of patient maturation and an innovative cask layering process that reveals indulgent, dessert-inspired flavors. Each sip carries intricate notes of fig, chocolate ganache, caramelized crème brûlée, and black cherry gâteau, presented in a bespoke display case that reflects both the refinement of the whisky and the artistry behind its creation.

For Ngo, whisky collecting is not just a pursuit of rarity—it is about connection and celebration. “In my 30s, I began exploring premium and rare whiskies. By my 40s, I discovered the true value of whisky: the conversations and relationships it inspires,” he shared. “I usually open bottles for meaningful moments, and this will be no different when the right occasion comes.”

This personal philosophy resonates deeply with the approach of Diageo’s Private Sales Group, which goes beyond facilitating acquisitions of the world’s rarest bottles. The group curates exclusive experiences, such as mentoring dinners with whisky masters, global distillery visits, and private tastings tailored to clients’ preferences. It also offers bottle personalization and access to limited releases, creating a space where collectors engage not only with the spirit but with the craftsmanship and culture that surround it.

The arrival of The Singleton Gourmand in the Philippines underscores a broader evolution in the country’s luxury spirits landscape. Filipino collectors and enthusiasts are increasingly looking beyond prestige labels and price tags, valuing authenticity, craftsmanship, and the stories behind each bottle.

For collectors like Ngo, owning The Singleton Gourmand represents more than an investment—it is an expression of discernment and trust. As the circle of Filipino whisky connoisseurs continues to grow, this rare acquisition serves as a reminder that the most extraordinary bottles are not merely stored—they are shared, savored, and remembered in moments that matter most.